As for Ward, he remains optimistic an NFL player will break through the barrier, and if he was still playing, would welcome that in a teammate.

"Hopefully one guy comes out of the closet and (is) comfortable with himself," Ward said. "I don't have anything against a gay football player or a gay person period so if he does, he has support from me. I want people to live their lives for who they are and don't have to hide behind closed doors to do that."